A message from Emma Rowsell, Chief Student Officer

This is a special year for Surrey as we celebrate our 60th anniversary on our Guildford campus. Over the summer we have had other reasons to celebrate as we were ranked 7th in the sector for student satisfaction in the 2026 National Student Survey and named ‘University of the Year for Student Experience 2027’ by the Daily Mail University Guide. These achievements are something our whole community can be proud of.

As Chief Student Officer, I want you to get the very best from your time here. Staying connected with your course, attending your teaching and making the most of the opportunities available to you is essential. MySurrey Attendance and MySurrey Engagement can help you keep track of your learning and progress. 

We also want to prepare you for a future, in which AI will play an increasingly important role. From this academic year, AI will be embedded across Surrey degrees in ways relevant to your subject. You will not simply learn to use AI, but how to understand, question and judge it effectively. Visit the AI at Surrey webpage to find out more and explore how MySurrey AI gives all students access to AI tools.

Settling back into a new year at University can feel uncertain at times, please remember, you do not have to manage everything on your own. If you need help with your wellbeing, finances, studies or anything else, please reach out early. MySurrey Hive is a great place to start and can connect you with the right support.

And remember, University life is about much more than studying, so take the opportunity to get involved - join a club or society, volunteer, try something new and make connections.

Plus, don’t forget to check out the new Sir Ronald Wates Wetherspoons pub, now open on campus.

I hope you have a brilliant start to the year. 

Best wishes,

Emma 
Chief Student Officer